The idea that public assemblies equal chaos has been deeply etched in the minds of Singaporeans. Such tumult, we...

The idea that public assemblies equal chaos has been deeply etched in the minds of Singaporeans. Such tumult, we are told, leads to violence and the eventual ruin of the country. Anyone who attempts to exercise his or her right to protest must therefore not only be penalised by the authorities but must also be censured by fellow citizens. The effect has been resounding. Singapore is a graveyard when it comes to protests which are still taboo in Singapore. This may slowly be changing, however. The recent Bersih Rally held in Kuala Lumpur opened the eyes of many Singaporeans. We saw ordinary Malaysians gather in the streets of their country's capital to press for election reform and none of them looked like the rabid, violent anarchists who are just out for some window-smashing and rock-hurling. They were aunties and uncles, teachers and students, professionals and workers w...